Introduction

“Book on Bamboo Silk Bao Xianlun and Chen Yangjing Calligraphy Exhibition

Hunan Museum will present “Book on bamboo silk Bao Xianlun and Chen Yangjing calligraphy exhibition” in Special Exhibition Hall 3 on the third floor from August 23 to October 9, 2025. The exhibition is co-organized by Hunan Museum and Hunan Provincial Painting Academy.

Hunan ranks among the most significant regions in China for bamboo and silk manuscripts, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the nation’s total discoveries. Notable archaeological findings including the Warring States silk manuscripts from Zidanku, Qin dynasty bamboo slips from Liye, Han dynasty silk texts from Mawangdui, and the Wu State bamboo slips of the Three Kingdoms period unearthed at Changsha’s Zoumalou site, are unparalleled nationwide in terms of historical span, preservation quality and content richness. These artifacts constitute a treasure trove of Chinese calligraphic art and reflect the profound cultural legacy of the Hunan region.

The exhibition title, “Book on bamboo silk”, embodies a dual curatorial vision. First, it refers to the two calligraphers’ profound deconstruction and creative reinterpretation of traditional Chinese calligraphy. Through their distinctive brushwork, they revitalize the spirit of ancient writing and pay homage to its classical origins. Second, it underscores the shared commitment of museums and calligraphers in the modern era: to enhance the conservation and dynamic utilization of bamboo and silk manuscripts. By facilitating a cross-temporal dialogue between contemporary calligraphic practice and ancient artifacts, the exhibition seeks to genuinely bring cultural relics to life, transcending their static display in storage or vitrines.

Structured as a dual solo exhibition, the presentation is divided into two sections, each dedicated to one artist’s contemporary transformation of bamboo and silk manuscript aesthetics, informed by their unique calligraphic style. Featuring over 70 works (sets) by Bao Xianlun and Chen Yangjing, the exhibition draws inspiration from slip calligraphy, with each artist tracing its origins and achieving modern excellence in Qin and Han-inspired creations through highly individualized brush language. This endeavor initiates a transcendent conversation through bamboo and silk across time. Their works seamlessly integrate the subtleties of traditional calligraphy with contemporary aesthetic sensibilities, demonstrating both a deep engagement with China’s cultural legacy and the innovative vitality of calligraphic art in the present day.